NRL Referee Chris James made his Group 6 1st Grade debut at Victoria Park in Picton over 22 Years ago.
He was graded into the NSWRLRA in 2004, becoming referee number #900.
In 2007 he controlled the Jim Beam Cup grand Final. He also made his NRL debut as a Touch Judge that year in round 11 in on the Broncos v Knights match. He went on to be appointed to 45 games as an NRL Touch Judge.
Chris made his NRL centre debut with his number #92 on Sunday, March 15th, 2009 at the Gold Coast’s Robina Stadium controlling a match with Matt Cecchin between the Gold Coast Titans v Newcastle Knights with a crowd of almost 17,000 in attendance. The Titans defeated the Knights 34 – 20. First round of the two referee model.
Appointed Pacific Cup Final referee in 2009 and NRL All Stars referee 2013 and 2 Final series matches as well as 1 Video Referee appointment.
He became a regular first grade referee and controlled the 2013 City vs Country Origin match with Adam Devcich at Coffs Harbour.
He joined the 100 club 5 April 2014, between the Penrith Panthers and the Canberra Raiders again with Adam Devcich.
His final NRL appointment was ironically at the same venue, now CBUS Super Stadium with Gavin Reynolds, the Titans being defeated by the Bulldogs 14 – 26.
228 NRL games later Chris has left the NRL squad however he will continue to be active in Group 6 as well as mentoring and developing up and coming referees.
His stats clearly show he was the 30th most experienced NRL Referee in First Grade history.
Chris has now moved on to another professional role within the NRL.
Chris has contributed enormously to refereeing and our game and he leaves a legacy for referees to aspire to.
Chris the New South Wales Rugby League Referees Association are proud of your achievements and for being a role model to so many. The game is better for your involvement.
We congratulate you on your career that many may never have and we will always welcome you as a member of our proud 110 year Association.
Well done – #RESPECT
Michael Jones
Executive Officer
